The English champions had a difficult season and were on the verge of an early Champions League exit until Real Madrid again twisted the dagger into Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. With his first two goals in five games versus Madrid, Erling Haaland finally joined the celebration as City took a two-goal lead at the Etihad. However, City’s obvious weaknesses this season cannot be covered by the Norwegian’s goals. With a late flourish, Madrid would have gone home hating their finishing after being wasteful for eighty-five minutes.
Jude Bellingham, who was returning to England, knocked home the winning goal in stoppage time following yet another City defensive disaster, but Brahim Diaz scored seconds after coming off the bench against this old team. The closing 15 minutes of City’s last five Champions League games have now seen them give up eight goals. For Guardiola, late goals have also been an issue in the Premier League, where City lags far behind leaders Liverpool by 15 points.
Man City’s lack of belief and ageing team exposed by Madrid
Guardiola is currently leading a team with too many players who are not fully fit, or in Rodri’s case, not fit at all, and too many kilometers on the clock. The fissures are beginning to appear irreparable and more in need of extensive repairs. Another unfortunate event was that Jack Grealish, who had performed like a man with a point to prove to his manager, got hurt and left the game after 30 minutes.
In this game, the holders’ lead lasted for just ninety seconds. It was for the last ninety seconds, which was crucial for them and possibly disastrous for Manchester City. Given their present performance and tendency to falter, City will nearly need a miracle in the second leg at the Bernabeu. And in that famous, merciless stadium, miracles usually only happen to the squad in white.
Guardiola said, “It happens a lot this season,” and he appeared hurt, irritated, and panicked at times in his technical area. I am familiar with Real Madrid’s caliber. Our attempt to attack too early cost us the game in the second half. Because they are a great team, it occurs.It occurs frequently this season. I just made bad choices. Alright, I get it. Everyone is involved; it’s not just about the team or you and me.”
